Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Integration in Compact Urban Housing

Authors:
Sean Mcgillicuddy, Jacob Getzler
Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Integration in Compact Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive glazing, this compact urban residence integrates solar technology to provide sustainable living solutions within a versatile space for both habitation and work.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a modular design that enables easy relocation within urban settings.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and low maintenance.
03
Features extensive glazing to maximize natural light and promote outdoor connections.
04
Integrates solar panels to reduce energy dependence and environmental impact.
05
Offers dual-functionality, combining living and workspaces in a compact footprint.
PanelHaus is an innovative architectural project designed to provide solutions to the housing crisis in urban settings, particularly in Washington, D.C. This project addresses urgent housing needs while incorporating sustainable practices and adaptable living environments. The design employs a modular approach, allowing flexibility in use while maintaining a compact footprint.

The architecture of PanelHaus features a dual-functional layout that accommodates residential living and workspace. This versatility caters to contemporary lifestyles that often require the integration of home and work. The structure promotes community interaction, reflecting a focus on re-establishing connections among inhabitants and their surrounding neighborhoods.

Sustainable Material Selection

PanelHaus employs a thoughtful selection of materials that contribute to its sustainability goals. The use of blackened wood, enhanced through the shou sugi ban technique, not only serves functional purposes such as weather resistance but also provides an aesthetic element that stands out in its urban environment. The natural wood interior, likely composed of spruce or pine, offers warmth and comfort, contrasting with the more rugged exterior.

Solar panels integrated into the design underscore its commitment to energy efficiency, enabling the structure to function independently from non-renewable energy sources. Significant areas of glazing allow natural light to enhance the interior, promoting a connection to the outdoors while maintaining energy efficiency.

Functional Design Elements

The layout of PanelHaus is characterized by compact yet multifunctional spaces. It includes a well-considered kitchen design that maximizes efficiency with minimal spatial demands. Foldable furniture and expandable outdoor decks cater to the need for versatility, allowing users to adapt their living space to different needs throughout the day.

Unique design approaches in PanelHaus include the incorporation of eco-friendly restroom solutions, such as composting systems and water collection provisions, aligning with sustainable practices. Furthermore, the modular nature of the building allows for easy relocation, responding effectively to changing urban dynamics and housing needs.

Through its architectural plans and sections, PanelHaus offers a practical response to urban housing challenges while fostering community engagement and sustainability. For a comprehensive understanding of the design and its innovative features, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural designs and ideas presented within the project documentation. Detailed architectural plans and sections provide further insight into the thoughtful approach and design outcomes of PanelHaus.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy